Internet Abuse Addiction Intervention
In the last decade the Internet has reshaped the way we do business as well as our culture.
The Internet has changed how we shop, research, entertain ourselves and interact with others. However, for a small percentage of the population, the Internet becomes a consuming, compulsive, escape from reality.
Internet addiction is a relatively new and growing disorder, but the effects on marriage, family, and friendship are impossible to ignore. Internet addiction cuts off a person from the face-to-face relationships around them and gives them a false sense of community with others online. The online world takes precedence over the real people in the addict’s unplugged life. People who have an Internet addiction will often have other addictions, depression, or anxiety.
Abuse
Abuse of the Internet is defined by continued and compulsive use of the Internet, despite negative consequences. Intervention Authority has dealt with many of niches of this addiction, such as online pornography, chat-room relationships, online shopping sprees and gambling. Proper treatment can break through this dependence, teaching the addict how to deal with life’s problems head on, rather than trying to escape them.
Addiction and Dependency
Internet dependency is similar to all addiction, and will only become worse if not treated.
An Internet addict spends most of his or her time online or thinking about when he or she will have the chance to be online. Reality is escaped, so the addict does not confront issues or people in their lives. However, when confronted the Internet addict will rationalize and promise to control their behavior, to no avail.
Have you noticed your loved one spending more time on the computer? Does time spent on the Internet take precedence over important matters? Does the person become anxious when unable to be on the Internet?
A yes answer to any of these questions should raise concern. These compulsive behaviors do not get better on their own, and will get progressively worsen over time.
Intervention
Just by reading this, you are closer to finding help for a loved one. The next step is to call for assistance from a professional interventionist. Calls are confidential and anonymous. Please call Intervention Authority at 1 (877) 627-0384 (toll-free) or 1 (949) 636-1268 (outside the United States). You can also email us at info@interventionauthority.com. |
